HXR-MC1500P

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Professional appearance improves your shooting style.

Advanced technology improves your shooting quality.
One of the defining characteristics of the HXR-MC1500 one-piece shoulder camcorder is its professional look and
shooting style, which can make the difference between success and failure when capturing an important scene or
memorable moment. When your wedding party moves indoors its time to switch on your camcorder battery light to
maintain good color quality and remove shadows from your subjects faces. Mounting your camcorder on a tripod allows
you to zoom in on the speaker at a business conference and avoid distracting camera movement.
Whether shooting a corporate communications promotion on a budget, a concert, music video or a wedding, the
HXR-MC1500 offers a wide variety of features necessary for serious videographers. While still light and easily portable,
actors, performers and clients know you mean business when youre carrying a full-size camcorder on your shoulder.
Footage can be recorded directly onto a removable memory card in HD, high definition or SD, standard definition.
A 32 GB hard-wired internal flash memory storage system on board the HXR-MC1500, enables longer duration continuous
recording. Perfect for those occasions where you dont want to be stopping the camera, such as music concerts or
business conference presentations.
This tapeless front-end solution for video acquisition is an ideal match for any type of non-linear editing system workflow.
Now youve got a cost-effective production package for DVD or Blu-ray content, thats flexible enough to express your
creative ideas and meet your clients requirements.

Wide-angle G Lens

Exmor R CMOS Sensor with ClearVid Array

The HXR-MC1500 comes equipped with a sophisticated G Lens that incorporates

Sonys unique optical design technology and quality control, delivering
exceptional performance on a par with some of the best lenses in the industry.
The HXR-MC1500 has been optimized to perfectly complement the G Lens with
an advanced image sensor and Sonys famous image processing technology.
This improves your shooting whether zooming in on the action, or getting a
perspective on the big picture with the 29.8 mm wide angle in Video mode
(35mm equivalent).

An image sensor is one of the three key devices that determine the final image
quality and performance of a camcorder. The HXR-MC1500s Exmor R CMOS sensor
is capable of producing superb image quality even in low-light conditions. Sonys
unique imaging system incorporates exclusive back-illuminated technology that
places metal wiring beneath the photo diode (light-receiving material), enabling
the CMOS sensor to utilize incidental light more efficiently. This doubles the
sensitivity of conventional CMOS sensors, and provides a dramatic boost in lowlight performance that was previously
impossible to achieve. The Exmor R
sensor can achieve excellent results in
bright daylight as well in dimly lit
indoor scenes and outdoor night
scenes. Furthermore, with the HXRMC1500s newly improved autofocus
in low-light conditions, the G Lens can
Conventional Model
quickly achieve sharp focus on a
moving subject.

40mm

29.8mm (HXR-MC1500)

Manual Lens Ring with

Assignable Parameters
Using the assignable lens ring, users
can manually adjust key parameters
like Focus, White Balance, Exposure,
AE Shift, Iris priority and Shutter
Speed priority. Users can control the
G Lens iris to create an out-of-focus
effect in the foreground or
background. Shutter-speed can also
be controlled to create special
effects, such as the flowing motion of
a waterfall or bird wings in flight etc.

HXR-MC1500 (Exmor R)

Optical SteadyShot with

Active Mode
The new Optical SteadyShot with
Active Mode ensures smooth
movement while recording footage in
various shooting situations. In addition,
Sonys innovative 3-Way ShakeCanceling technology adds electronic
roll stability for even smoother video
capture. This latest version of image
stabilization technology realizes
images that are up to 10x steadier for
wide angle shooting than conventional
Optical SteadyShot images. As the user
zooms in, an intelligent digital image
stabilizer starts to blend in and work
together with its optical counterpart to
effectively reduce camera shake. This
technology is also able to reduce
shake in the rolling direction that
commonly occurs when shooting while
walking.

Ergonomically Designed
Handle
The ergonomically designed handle
of the camcorder contains a
convenient record button and zoom
control, essential for low position
shooting. There are also cold shoes
on the front and rear of the handle,
which allow for the attachment of two
different types of accessories.

Video/Audio output connectors

SteadyShot off

Long Operating Time with infoLITHIUM-L Series Battery

The HXR-MC1500 camcorder uses standard infoLITHIUM L series batteries, which are compatible
with many types of Sonys professional camcorders and genuine accessories. With the largest
capacity battery NP-F970, a maximum operating time of approximate 13 hours can be achieved
for AVCHD recording in FH mode.

SteadyShot w/Active Mode on

* On Screen Image Simulated

Efficiency and Operability on Readily Available

Memory Cards

DVDirect & Direct Copy

The camcorder is designed to record directly onto consumer memory cards,

which are affordable and easy to obtain at most stores. Also, a large capacity
32 GB solid-state memory comes built into the camera body. This combination
of removable and built-in memory is especially convenient when shooting a
documentary or news report on the move. When data has been backed up to a
HDD or downloaded to a PC for editing, you can simply reuse both the
removable memory cards and internal memory for your next assignment.
Compatible Memory Cards
* For detailed information please refer to the specification
sheet on the back of this brochure.

Internal memory: 32 GB*

* When measuring media capacity, 1 GB equals 1 billion
bytes, a portion of which is used for system management
and/or application files.
The capacity that a user can use is approximately 31.5 GB.

Memory Stick
PRO DuoTM

SD/SDHC
Memory
Card

When the camcorder is connected to the optional DVDirect Express (VRD-P1) DVD
writer via a USB cable, a single press of the One Touch Disk button is all it takes to
burn video footage directly onto a DVD - without using a PC. This model is also
equipped with a down-conversion function that enables DVD burning to SD picture
quality. Users can playback a DVD they just created simply by pressing the Play
button on the DVDirect Express when the camcorder is connected.
With Direct Copy you also have the option of quickly and easily backing up
valuable video data on an external hard disk drive, HDD - without using a PC.
Simply connect the camcorder using the supplied USB Adaptor Cable (VMC-UAM1).
Easy Archive Solutions
DVDirect

Compatible
DVDirect devices
VRD-P1
VRD-MC6

The Revolutionary AVCHD File Format

AVCHD is an efficient data compression method that greatly reduces memory
requirements. The new format allows tapeless recording with high image quality
and small file size. This is made possible by the revolutionary MPEG4 AVC/H.264
codec. Many consumer electronic devices already support AVCHD playback, and
more are on the way. Numerous major NLE software programs feature AVCHD
input and editing. The format is quickly becoming a universal standard for video.

* Cannot burn AVCHD FX mode recorded les to DVD of AVCHD disc.

Can burn FX mode to DVD Video downconverting HD to SD. (VRD-MC6 doesnt support downconverting.)

Direct Copy

External HDD

MPEG-2 for SD (Standard Definition)

Recording Format
SD recording is available in addition to HD. The SD recording format uses
MPEG-2, which is the same compression codec as standard DVD video discs. If
your project will end up on DVD then using this format can save you production
time and maintain the original image quality.*
* Non-linear computer editing performance and quality may vary depending on the application
software used.

How to Playback

1. Direct Copy is compatible with USB media that meets the following requirements
USB media that meets the USB2.0 requirement.
For external HDD or USB memory under 2TB, an AC powered external HDD is recommended.
USB media formatted in the FAT32 le system. In the case when USB media is not in FAT32 le system,
reformatting is required and all data will be erased.
* There may be cases when USB media is not compatible with the Direct Copy function.

2. When using Direct Copy the camcorder needs to be connected to AC power.

3. Using VMC-UAM1(supplied) cable when the HXR-MC1500 is connected to External HDD.
4. Connection via USB-hub is not supported.

How to Archive

COMPONENT
Blu-ray Disc

HDMI etc
HXR-MC1500

Professional Monitor with

COMPONENT input

PlayStation3

Memory Card

Computer

Caution : When backing up AVCHD data on the Memory Stick to Blu-ray Disc or
HDD mass storage copy all the files below the root folder.

HDMI etc

HDD mass storage

Television with HDMI etc input

Memory Card
Computer

*Windows 7 offers AVCHD playback as

a standard feature

Accessories

Rechargeable Battery Pack

2NP-F970

A LANC Remote Controller

with Variable Speed Zooming

RM-1BP

AC Adaptor/Charger

AC-VQL1B

Tripod with RM-1BP

Remote Controller

VCT-PG11RMB

Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo

MS-HX32A (32 GB, 16 GB, 8 GB)
Memory Stick PRO Duo
MS-MT32G (32 GB, 16 GB, 8 GB, 4 GB, 2 GB)

Shotgun Microphone

LED Battery Video Light

Camcorder Support

SD / SDHC Memory Card

DVDirect Express
DVD Writer

DVDirect
Multi-Function DVD Recorder

ECM-CG50BP

SF-32N4

(32 GB, 16 GB, 8 GB, 4 GB, 2 GB)

HVL-LBPB

VRD-P1

VCT-SP1BP

VRD-MC6

Specifications
HXR-MC1500P
Genera
Mass

Camera Section
Imaging device

(w/Hood, w/Eye Cup)

(w/Hood, w/Eye Cup,
w/ Battery, w/Microphone,
w/ Recording Media, )
Dimension (W x H x D) (w/Hood, w/Eye Cup)
(w/Hood, w/Eye Cup,
w/ Battery, w/Microphone,
w/ Recording Media, )
Power requirements
Power Requirements
(AC adaptor / Battery)
Power consumption
viewfinder - normal
brightness (HD / SD)
LCD - normal brightness
(HD / SD)
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
Battery operating time Continuous recording time
Recording format
Video Format
HD
SD
Audio Format
HD
SD
Recording frame rate*1

Recording/Playback time
Zoom ratio
Focal length
Focus
Image stabilizer
Filter diameter

2.7 kg (5 lb 15 oz)
2.9 kg (6 lb 6 oz)

Minimum illumination
Shutter speed
Iris
Slow & Quick Motion function

255 232 456 mm (10 1/8 9 1/4 18 inch)

255 234 464 mm (10 1/8 9 1/4 18 3/8 inch)

White balance
Inputs/Outputs
Mic input
A/V Output
Component Video Output
Remote Conector
USB
Headphone output
HDMI output
Monitoring
Viewfinder
Built-in LCD monitor
Microphone

8.4 V / 7.2 V
3.4 W / 2.6 W
3.4 W / 2.6 W
0 to +40 deg C (+32 to +104 deg F)
-20 to +60 deg C (-4 to +140 deg F)
approx. 280 min (FH, LCD, NP-F570: fully charged batt.)
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 (AVCHD)
MPEG-2 PS
Dolby Digital 2ch, 16 bit, 48 kHz
Dolby Digital 2ch, 16 bit, 48 kHz
AVCHD FX (24 Mbps) 1920 x 1080/50i / 16:9
AVCHD FH (17 Mbps) 1920 x 1080/50i / 16:9
AVCHD HQ (9 Mbps) 1440 x 1080/50i / 16:9
AVCHD LP (5 Mbps) 1440 x 1080/50i / 16:9
MPEG2 SD HQ (9 Mbps) 720 x 576/50i / 16:9, 4:3
175 min (2 h 55 m) with 32 GB Memory Stick PRO-HX Duo FX
(24 Mbps) Dolby Digital 2ch recording
Sony G Lens, 12x (optical), 160x Digital Zoom
f = 2.9 to 34.8 mm (equivalent to f = 29.8 to 357.6 mm at 16:9 video
and still mode, f = 27.4 to 328.8 mm at 4:3 still mode,
f = 36.5 to 438.0 mm at 4:3 video mode on 35 mm lens)*2
Full range auto / Manual
ON / OFF selectable
37 mm

Stereo mini jack (x 1) 3.5 mm

Pin Jack
Pin Jack
Stereo mini-minijack (2.5 mm)
USB device, Mini-AB/Hi-Speed (x 1)
Stereo mini jack (x 1) 3.5 mm
HDMI connector (x 1)
0.2 inch-type approx. 201 600 dots (300 x 224 x 3 [RGB]), 4:3 aspect ratio
2.7 ClearPhoto LCD, approx. 230 400 dots (960 x 240), 16:9 aspect ratio
2ch Stereo microphone

Recording Media
Internal Memory
Type

32 GB
Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2), Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo,
Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX*3
SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card*4

Supplied Accessories
AC Adaptor [AC-L100], Rechargeable Battery Pack [NP-F570],
Power cord, Microphone (Stereo) [ECM-PS1], Wind Screen, Eyecup,
Lens hood, Lens cap, Composite cable (RCA x3), USB cable (mini-B),
USB Adaptor cable (for external HDD) [VMC-UAM1],
Application Software (CD-ROM) [PMB]
*1:
*2:
*3:
*4:

Due to variable bitrate, 24 Mbps is the maximum bitrate for AVCHD FX mode and the average bitrate is being stated for FH, HQ and LP modes.
The focal length is when SteadyShot mode is in Active mode Off.
Compatible Memory Stick type: For AVCHD recording / Capacity: more than 1 GB, For Standard Definition recording / Capacity: more than 512 MB
Recommended Speed Class For AVCHD recording / Class 4 or higher, For Standard Definition recording / Class 2 or higher

234 (9 1/4)

127 (5)

232 (9 1/4)

100 (4)

Supplied Accessories

255 (10 1/8)

Dimensions

229 (9 1/8)

1/4-inch type ExmorR CMOS with ClearVid pixel array

Pixel Gross: Approx.4200K Video Actual: Approx. 2650K (16:9)
3 lx (Low LUX mode, 1/25 shutter)
1/6 - 1/10000 (Manual Shutter Speed Control)
F1.8 - F3.4
200 fps (fixed) as Smooth Slow Rec *The picture quality is degraded.
(fps : Field per Sec.)
Auto, outdoor (5800K), indoor (3200K), One-push (Touch panel)

324 (12 7/8)

456 (18)

134 (5 3/8)

464 (18 3/8)

Unit: mm (inches)

PMB System Requirements

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack3 (32 bit),
Windows Vista Service Pack2 (32 bit / 64 bit),
Windows 7
Intel Core2 Duo 2.26 GHz (for AVCHD playback)
1 GB of RAM
500 MB available hard-disk space for installation
1024 x 768 display
DVD writable drive
BD writable drive for Blu-ray video creation

Approximate Recording Time

HD movie (w / 2ch Audio)

SD movie (w / 2ch Audio)

AVC HD 24M (FX)
(1920 x 1080i)

AVC HD 17M (FH)

(1920 x 1080i)

AVC HD 9M
(HQ)

AVC HD 5M
(LP)

2 GB Memory Card

10 min

10 min

25 min

45 min

4 GB Memory Card

20 min

25 min

55 min

90 min

8 GB Memory Card

40 min

55 min

110 min

190 min

16 GB Memory Card

85 min

110 min

220 min

380 min

32 GB Memory Card

175 min

225 min

455 min

770 min

Distributed by

MK10768V1OHB10NOV

Internal Memory (32 GB) (w / 2ch Audio)

STD 9M (HQ)

AVC HD 24M (FX)

180 min

2 GB Memory Card

25 min

AVC HD 17M (FH)

235 min

4 GB Memory Card

55 min

AVC HD 9M (HQ)

470 min

8 GB Memory Card

115 min

AVC HD 5M (LP)

800 min

16 GB Memory Card

230 min

STD 9M (HQ)

485 min

32 GB Memory Card

465 min

2010 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permissions is prohibited.
Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
The values for weight and dimension are approximate.
Sony and Sony logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
G Lens, Exmor, InfoLITHIUM, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO Duo,
Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo are registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
AVCHD and AVCHD logo are trademarks of
Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation
in the United States and other countries.
Dolby is a trademark of Dolby Laboratories.
SD, SDHC and SDXC logos are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.